Older Consumers' Disposition of Special Possessions

Price, L. L., Arnould, E. J., & Curasi, C. F. (2000). Journal of Consumer Research, 27(2), 179–201. DOI: 10.1086/314319.

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Summary

Qualitative research on how older adults think about and dispose of their special possessions, showing that physical objects can carry stories, identity, and legacy -- and that moving or downsizing can turn possessions into a real practical burden alongside their sentimental value.

Key findings

Special possessions can hold significant identity and legacy meaning for older adults.
The same objects can become a real burden (space, decisions about disposition) during a move or downsizing.

GiftNav takeaway

For an older recipient, whether a gift is a physical object worth asking "does this have a place and purpose in their current life" -- not whether the recipient belongs to an age category.

Limitations & cautions

Studies possession meaning and disposition broadly, not gift-giving specifically; qualitative findings from a particular study population, not a representative survey.

Themes

Used in these research topics

Last reviewed September 14, 2026.

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